Category: Expat-ness

As an American expat in Ireland, Thanksgiving falls under one of the more unique experiences. Firstly, the grocery stores are not chaotic with shoppers seeking sage, cranberries, or the elusive last-minute turkey. Secondly, Ireland's appreciation for good food and family makes Thanksgiving a natural fit. Thirdly, life goes on without fanfare, festivities, or feasts -... Continue Reading →

One of the hardest parts of expat life for me is the isolation and silence of unshared milestones. Yes, birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, and more still exist and take place, but without much celebration or, for lack of a better word, fanfare. There have been 10 Halloweens here, only one with trick-or-treating. A few Thanksgivings I... Continue Reading →

Being a mother of two youngsters in a country that was not my home since birth is a challenge. There is no back-up like at "home." Birthday dinners do not include the parents that gave us life and there are so many differences that are jarring. It wasn't like this when I was a kid,... Continue Reading →

There is a truth to being an expat that you may be a local, but will always be a bit of an outsider looking in. I am totally American to everyone here in Ireland. Nearly nine years has not earned me a place as an Irish person, but I understand maybe I have not earned it... Continue Reading →

Each year, it is the same thing. A normal weekday is actually a special occasion in my heart. People still go to work and school, traffic is still bad, and grocery stores are the same as any other day. It feels like my own little secret, but one I wish I could share with everyone.... Continue Reading →

Electric on South Mall has noticed over these last few years that people's habits and expectations for socializing are evolving. At first, it made them nervous, but then they realized it is actually an opportunity to engage more, try new things, and be different. From this, #ElectricExperiences was born – these are events, themes, menus, and specials that Electric creates that are uniquely theirs... Continue Reading →

As an American abroad, Thanksgiving is very important to me. It is a tradition (which sometimes can be seen as a routine), but also something close to my heart. It is when we sit together, from different backgrounds and different families to break bread and share what we have. It started with the Pilgrims and... Continue Reading →

In two weeks, I will have been in orbit around the sun for 40 years. I love my birthday. LOVE IT. Like each person, it is a personal holiday celebrating one's arrival in this world. It's wonderful and exciting and should feel like sprinkles on ice cream and puppy kisses. But with all the epic-ness I feel about my birthday,... Continue Reading →